Where do you see yourself five years from now?

"In five years from now, I see myself being the executive producer for some small scale productions, as well as continuing to be a production assistant. I feel that in the next five years I will have so much experience as an assistant that I will feel comfortable taking control of the whole production myself, and will have gained respect in the community."

The candidate should discuss how the job position would help them grow in the short term future within the company. The interviewer is looking for someone who does not immediately want to leave the company for a new one. The candidate should discuss how they hope to improve in the position and where they see his or herself after gaining certain skills and knowledge as a production assistant.

Do you feel comfortable working overtime when necessary?

"I feel comfortable working overtime when I feel that the product is not at its best. I want the highest quality work with my name on it, so I will do what is necessary to have that happen."

Working on a production means that everyone is willing to put in every effort to make it as flawless as possible. This often means staying late to get the best takes, and working overtime to finish work. The candidate should talk about their ability to work overtime when necessary, and may need to address any issues about overtime pay. The candidate should show such a dedication to the product that the hiring manager will be inspired by their passion for the job.

Why do you want to be an assistant to the executive producer rather than the EP him/herself?

"I someday hope to be the EP of a production, but I feel that I still have some learning to do. In time that position will be right for me, but I want to soak up as much of being an assistant as I can to learn what it means to truly work with every sect of the production."

Oftentimes an assistant producer someday hopes to become the executive producer. Sometimes, they enjoy the busy work of being the assistant and hope to hold that position for a while. The candidate should talk about their future aspirations and why at this moment they feel like being an assistant producer is a good move for him/her. The candidate may talk about the skills they will learn in the position to make them an even better worker in the future.

Have you ever made a big blunder on the job and how did you resolve it?

"In a previous job, I did not get to the talent in time and they missed their curtain call. This was completely my mistake because I should have organized my time better to make sure I could get to their room at least five minutes before their call. I have learned that I need to better manage my time, and I have never made this mistake ever again."

The candidate should be open and honest about some error they have made in a previous job, but show that they have since learned from the mistake. The candidate should specifically be sure to talk about the skills they have brought away from the mistake and how they plan on growing in this new position without making such errors. This shows that the person is able to grow and improve over time and is willing to take criticism to do so.

Do you consider yourself a coordinated and organized person?

"I consider myself extremely organized, and I am able to do so by keeping lots of lists and notebooks. I feel that since I have everything under control and remain calm, I inspire the rest of the team to remain calm doing their work as well, which helps us all move through our daily work flow."

A production assistant has much to keep under control so everyone stays on task and organized. The person should talk about their experience in this type of organizational role and how they plan on tackling the job. They should talk about how they specifically plan to stay on task and keep everyone else on schedule as well.

What is your experience managing talent on set?

"I have experience running teams and feel that I would be a perfect manager on this type of job. I am able to keep everyone upbeat and motivated all while getting the job done quickly and in an organized fashion."

The candidate should not only talk about their experiencing managing but should talk about what kind of manager they are. The candidate should talk about what makes a good manager, such as someone who listens, addresses issues quickly, and stays organized.

What is your experience helping with lighting on set?

"I worked with lighting on sets in college and feel I have plenty of knowledge on the matter. I know how to hang up lights, put filters on them, and move them around on their racks."

A production assistant must be able to help the lighting directors organize lighting and put up the correct lighting for each production and scene. The candidate should talk about their experience working with lighting and how this will help them be successful on the job.

If you could start your career over again, what would you do differently?

"If I could start my career over again, I would still eventually find myself working in production. However, I have always been interested in art. I think my creativity makes me a great fit for this career so I can eventually progress into a strong producer and director."

The candidate should talk about other interests and skills they possess that ultimately make them an even better worker on the job. The candidate may talk about other fields of study they enjoyed and possibly once hoped to pursue. By talking about what skills they have developed based on these other interests, it will make them appear like someone who is very well rounded and talented in many fields.

Do you prefer a manager who is hands-on or hands-off?

"I prefer a manager who is hands off because once they give me a task, I want to take the job on completely and do my best work without interruption. However, I enjoy someone who also chips in ideas and gives me feedback so I can improve."

The candidate should discuss their experience with various types of managers, and what kind of management style they work best under. Since a production assistant's entire job is basically doing tasks that a manager assigns them, it is important that the candidate works well with managers.

What is your experience working at various hours of the day?

"I find that I am very good at adjusting my schedule based on the needs of a production. I have been working in this industry for many years and know how flexible you must be. I have worked at every hour of the day, and find ways to adjust to it to do my best work."

Production assistants often have to work at random hours of the day, depending on the production. For instance, a production may have a lot of filming in darkness, so they must work overnight. The candidate should talk about what time of day they find they work best, but also should discuss their ability to work at any time of the day depending on what they are asked to do. This position requires much time flexibility.

What is your experience traveling for a job?

"I consider myself an incredibly organized person, so I am always excited to travel for work. I am good at making sure I have everything I need to do my job elsewhere, as well as making sure everyone else is prepared, too."

Production assistants should be prepared for some jobs to take them around the country and the globe, depending on where the production or show will be filmed. The candidate should discuss their ability to travel for work, whether it be for a week or a month. They should discuss any holdups they may have about this, or should talk about how excited they are for a job that allows them to travel.

Have you progressed in your career as you had hoped?

"It has taken me a little longer than most to get to where I wanted to be in my career, but that is because of family issues when I was just out of college. I decided that it was more important to my conscience to take care of my dying father than to launch into my career. Now that I am at peace, I am ready to take on my career."

The candidate should discuss their past and how fast or slow they have progressed through their career plans. Perhaps the candidate has zoomed into the position, or perhaps they have changed careers many times and have finally found one they like later in life. The candidate should discuss what they have learned in their past experiences, and how their past careers and progression have influenced where they are today.

Why is this location a good fit for you?

"I feel very comfortable working in California because I have many family and friends here that have told me how much I will like it. I love warm weather, and am excited to learn more about the area."

Knowing one's surroundings is an important part of getting a job. If someone is already well familiarized with the area, hiring managers may believe they will fit in quicker than if they got a job in a completely foreign place to them. The candidate should talk about their knowledge of the area and why they want to work there. If the candidate is not originally from the area, they should talk about what draws them to the area, and how they adapt to new places.

Why did you choose to work for this production company?

"I want to work for this specific production company because I believe out of any candidate, I have been watching productions since I was a child and know the types of shows you direct. I am so familiar with your work and know it is something that will keep me motivated each day."

The hiring manager is looking for someone who wants to work for their company not because they want any old job, but are choosing this particular one for certain reasons. The candidate should talk about what it is about this specific production company that makes them want the job, and why they believe they would be a good fit there. The candidate could talk about the types of productions they direct, the location where they typically are, or the kind of people that work there.

How do you believe this job will help you grow?

"I look forward to the learning opportunities this job presents me. I believe I will learn to give better direction on set and manage talent smoother behind the scenes. I believe editing will help me ultimately become a better writer."

The hiring manager is looking for a candidate who wants to not only succeed in their job, but overachieve and continue growing professionally. The candidate should discuss the skills they hope to learn in the job and where they hope to be once the job is finished. They should show the candidate a passion to keep learning and improving over time.

Where does this job fit into your career plans?

"This job I believe will help me make the contacts in the production industry I need to move up one day. In the meantime, I am so excited to learn from some of the most brilliant minds in production so I can one day be as good as they are."

The candidate should discuss where they hope to grow and progress in the career in the future. They may talk about their ultimate career goal, and how this job will get them there. The candidate should stress the sheer importance of this job and what it will do for them professionally and personally until they can reach their ultimate dream career.

Why do you want to become a production assistant?

"I want to become a production assistant because I believe I am a great behind the scenes worker in productions. I am a good listener and am able to help executive producers get work and small tasks done fast without much explanation. I love to help the production run smoothly."

The candidate should discuss why they want to take the position of production assistant. They should discuss what prior experience they have in this job and the skills they possess to make them a good worker and fit for the job. A hiring manager is looking for someone who not only wants to take the job, but is excited and passionate about the work. The candidate should talk about why they are the best fit because of their deep passion for the field.

Do you consider yourself a creative person?

"I believe I am a very creative person. I have always loved writing and painting since I was very young, and later in life those talents turned into more intangible creative talents within my mind. I believe I am an asset to have on a creative team."

The candidate should be someone who is creative with their writing and ideas of how a production should run. They should come up with good ideas on the spot from anything from writing a script to knowing what caterers to bring in for the talent. The candidate should have a broad knowledge of the businesses around the area and have a solid creative thinking mind to keep the production team moving.

What are your salary expectations?

"Since I have been working as a production assistant for over 5 years, I believe I am worth $60,000-$63,000, especially because the cost of living here in California is steep."

The candidate should discuss the range of salaries they hope to make as a production assistant. Production assistants in a starting position make anywhere from $30,000-$70,000 depending on the company they are working for and their experience. However, there is room to grow and increase salary over time. The candidate should discuss a range of salaries they hope to make so they can come to an agreement with the hiring manager.

What is your least favorite part of the job?

"My least favorite part of the job is having to edit scripts because I find it very tedious. However, I have been proven to be a great writer and editor and I do a great job. Someday I believe I will enjoy it because I like the kinds of productions you have here."

The candidate should discuss what they struggle with the most in the job or what responsibility they are least happy to perform. This gives the interviewer an idea of where to place the candidate within the job. However, they also want to talk about growing and how the candidate can overcome that dislike and someday be alright with doing it regularly without any issues or strain on their job.

What is your favorite aspect of the job?

"My favorite part about being a production assistant is moving around and seeing different sights and faces each day. I love jogging my creative abilities by moving around, and hope to spread my energy to others."

The candidate should talk about why they love the job so much and why they would be interested in taking the job. They should talk about reasons that make them so devoted to the job at hand. The candidate should choose some of their favorite parts of the job to talk about to inspire the interviewer.

Would you feel comfortable stepping in for the executive producer if necessary?

"I would feel right at home if I had to step in for the executive producer position. I know exactly what responsibilities it entails and I believe that doing the assistant producer role helps me to prepare for taking over an executive position one day."

The candidate should describe their experience in production, not just being a production assistant, as it may help them move up the ladder or fill in for more superior positions if necessary. They should describe their experience with an executive producer position and how they would run the production or show if they had to step in for a day or a week. The candidate should show that they would not be scared to do this, and instead would be completely prepared to do this.

Will you be able to work on your feet all day?

"I love moving and would hate a job where I am stagnant all day. I feel that my mind works at its best when my body is also functioning!"

Production assistants are often moving nonstop throughout their entire shift. The candidate should describe their ability and willingness to be on their feet all day. The candidate should be someone who is energetic regardless of how tired they are, which often happens when they are running around all day.

Are you well versed in production cues and language?

"I have worked on many productions in the past and know all about giving cues to talent, such as stage left, stage right, and I have also worked closely with directors in giving cues such as drop, pop, fade, and more."

The candidate should discuss their experience in production in terms of giving talent and behind the scenes workers cues. They should talk about their experience working on productions in the past and the kind of work they will do for this production if given the opportunity. The use of cues and production language shows their skill level, and they should talk about what they know.

What is your experience with script writing and editing?

"I went to college for script writing because I thought originally I wanted to become a playwright. I have a very clear and concise writing style that will help in my editing because I can trim the scripts so that they will be best worded for the production."

A hiring manager is looking for someone with experience in writing and editing scripts, with a particular knowledge in script writing language. Then candidate should discuss their experience in this field and what kinds of writing they are familiar with doing and editing to show their skill level on this task.

What is your experience taking orders from a top executive?

"I have been second in command in a job like this before and I know exactly how to do the jobs someone tells me to do. I don't require much explanation and am able to work quickly so the whole product moves quickly through the production."

The production assistant manages large groups, but ultimately is an assistant who takes orders from others. The candidate should discuss what they feel is appropriate criticism and orders from their superiors, and how they will react when given a large workload on any given day. The candidate should discuss their ability to keep track of all of their responsibilities and get them done in a reasonable amount of time.

How do you work as a part of a team?

"I have worked in many teams in this career field and I believe I am an essential part of one because I keep everyone motivated and address any issues as they come up."

Production assistants not only have to be able to manage a team, but have to work well within one. They should be able to show good coordination skills, compromising skills, and be a good team player while sharing responsibilities. The candidate should discuss their experience working in a team and what they will bring to a group to make the team work better.

How do you work under pressure?

"I find that I do some of my best work under intense pressure. I am able to stay organized with alerts, notes in my notebook, and a firm schedule that keeps us all running smoothly. Even when I am feeling overwhelmed, these tools help me feel organized and in control."

Being a production assistant involves being put into very stressful situations, including being pulled in multiple directions, being asked many questions, and juggling all of the responsibilities of keeping everyone organized. The candidate should be someone who is able to stay calm even when times get tricky and they are overwhelmed with all of their jobs they are required to do. The candidate should discuss their experience working in this type of stress and talk about how they will work under these conditions.

What is your experience on movie/production sets?

"Although I have never worked on a professional set before, I was the executive producer of my college television shows. Although it was a small scale production, I learned how involved the job is and how many people you must manage at one time in order for everything to go smoothly. I believe once I step into this role at your company I will take off where I left off in school and manage a team just as well."

A hiring manager is looking for someone already well experienced in working on production sets. If the candidate is not already familiarized with this, they should discuss their knowledge of it and how they believe they will learn quickly once they get there. The candidate should discuss past experience helping out a production, whether it was in their professional career or as an internship. They should talk about the responsibilities they had on set and how they grew over time.

What skills do you have that make you a good fit for the job?

"Unlike other candidates, I believe I will be the perfect fit for the job because of my ability to manage multiple tasks at once. I am the most organized person I know and I will be able to juggle many different people, places and things to be the go-to resource on set."

The interviewer is looking for someone with a unique set of skills that will make them a great candidate and set them apart from the basic skills everyone applying for the job will have. The candidate should talk about their experience and skills as it applies to the job and they should describe how those skills make them a better candidate than anyone else.

What do you think it means to be a production assistant?

"In my opinion, being a production assistant is someone who helps everyone on the entire set. The production assistant knows everything and anything about the set, the talent, the lighting, the scripts, and the schedule for the day. They are the go-to person to ask questions and look for direction when the EP is too busy. I know I am the greatest person for the task."

The candidate should discuss what responsibilities they expect they will have as a production assistant. The candidate should discuss their own interpretation of the job, based on either prior experience or on what they imagine the job will entail. They should be sure to talk about how fast moving the job is, and they should connect how they are the perfect candidate and hard worker for the type of job they are applying for.

Production Assistant Interview Questions

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1. Where do you see yourself five years from now?
2. Do you feel comfortable working overtime when necessary?
3. Why do you want to be an assistant to the executive producer rather than the EP him/herself?
4. Have you ever made a big blunder on the job and how did you resolve it?
5. Do you consider yourself a coordinated and organized person?
6. What is your experience managing talent on set?
7. What is your experience helping with lighting on set?
8. If you could start your career over again, what would you do differently?
9. Do you prefer a manager who is hands-on or hands-off?
10. What is your experience working at various hours of the day?
11. What is your experience traveling for a job?
12. Have you progressed in your career as you had hoped?
13. Why is this location a good fit for you?
14. Why did you choose to work for this production company?
15. How do you believe this job will help you grow?
16. Where does this job fit into your career plans?
17. Why do you want to become a production assistant?
18. Do you consider yourself a creative person?
19. What are your salary expectations?
20. What is your least favorite part of the job?
21. What is your favorite aspect of the job?
22. Would you feel comfortable stepping in for the executive producer if necessary?
23. Will you be able to work on your feet all day?
24. Are you well versed in production cues and language?
25. What is your experience with script writing and editing?
26. What is your experience taking orders from a top executive?
27. How do you work as a part of a team?
28. How do you work under pressure?
29. What is your experience on movie/production sets?
30. What skills do you have that make you a good fit for the job?
31. What do you think it means to be a production assistant?

Production Assistant Interview Questions

1. Where do you see yourself five years from now?

2. Do you feel comfortable working overtime when necessary?

3. Why do you want to be an assistant to the executive producer rather than the EP him/herself?

4. Have you ever made a big blunder on the job and how did you resolve it?

5. Do you consider yourself a coordinated and organized person?

6. What is your experience managing talent on set?

7. What is your experience helping with lighting on set?

8. If you could start your career over again, what would you do differently?

9. Do you prefer a manager who is hands-on or hands-off?

10. What is your experience working at various hours of the day?

11. What is your experience traveling for a job?

12. Have you progressed in your career as you had hoped?

13. Why is this location a good fit for you?

14. Why did you choose to work for this production company?

15. How do you believe this job will help you grow?

16. Where does this job fit into your career plans?

17. Why do you want to become a production assistant?

18. Do you consider yourself a creative person?

19. What are your salary expectations?

20. What is your least favorite part of the job?

21. What is your favorite aspect of the job?

22. Would you feel comfortable stepping in for the executive producer if necessary?

23. Will you be able to work on your feet all day?

24. Are you well versed in production cues and language?

25. What is your experience with script writing and editing?

26. What is your experience taking orders from a top executive?

27. How do you work as a part of a team?

28. How do you work under pressure?

29. What is your experience on movie/production sets?

30. What skills do you have that make you a good fit for the job?

31. What do you think it means to be a production assistant?